Ireland threatens Eurovision 2026 withdrawal if Israel participates
RTÉ says Ireland’s participation would be “unconscionable” unless the EBU excludes Israel from Eurovision 2026 in Vienna
Ireland’s public broadcaster RTÉ says it will not take part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 if Israel is allowed to compete.
In a statement, RTÉ said Ireland’s participation would be “unconscionable” given the loss of life in Gaza, and raised concerns about attacks on journalists and access for international media. A final decision will be made once the EBU decides on Israel’s status.
RTÉ has also noted that several EBU members have discussed Israel’s participation with the union in recent months. Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm entries for 2026 without penalty.
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst said:
– RTÉ feels that Ireland’s participation would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza. RTÉ is also deeply concerned by the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza, the denial of access to international journalists to the territory, and the plight of the remaining hostages
The EBU is consulting with member broadcasters and is expected to clarify Israel’s eligibility before the end of the year. RTÉ says its final position will follow that decision.
Eurovision director Martin Green said:
– We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
– It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest and we would respect any decision broadcasters make.
Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest
Ireland holds the record for the most victories in the Eurovision Song Contest together with Sweden: Seven victories! Six of these victories were in the '80s and '90s:
- 1970: Dana – All Kinds Of Everything
- 1980: Johnny Logan – What's Another Year
- 1987: Johnny Logan – Hold Me Now
- 1992: Linda Martin – Why Me
- 1993: Niamh Kavanagh – In Your Eyes
- 1994: Paul Harrington & Charlie McGettigan – Rock 'n' Roll Kids
- 1996: Eimear Quinn – The Voice
Ireland has been part of Eurovision since 1965, with 58 appearances since then. They have qualified for the Grand Final 9 out of 21 times since the introduction of the Semi-finals in 2004. They finished last in their Semi-finals in 2019 and 2021.
